(01-27-2022, 04:38 PM)mvossman Wrote: I would have to go with Collins on that one. His offense would be a perfect fit with Luka, defensively I could see him playing the Powell role, he is younger than Brunson, and he is locked up on a value contract for years. I also think his game might explode when not playing next to a traditional center.
I think Brunson is more of a defensive liability, and I still worry about his effectiveness against elite defenses, especially in the playoffs. He is also about to get paid and a flight risk. I'm also not sold on his mesh with Luka. He is crazy valuable when Luka is out, but that is going to be 10 minutes max in a playoff game. When they are together it feels more like "I go, you go" then really playing off each other. I realize this could improve.
Of course the biggest issue would be replacing Brunson secondary playmaking and creation. The playmaking should not be that hard, but the creation is rare. Just not sure how effective it will be when it counts, and don't know if we can keep him regardless.
I could never have imagined anyone saying this at the beginning of the season. I am still not there yet, but it is absolutely a valid suggestion to think we should keep Brunson instead of trade him outright for JC. The uncertainty in a playoff atmosphere, flight risk, and overall lack of athleticism makes Collins the winner for me......but not by much.